Goa

Local areas in Goa

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Art and History

Goa Tour Packages by Taj Holidays

Soft sands, shimmering waters and swaying palms: that is Goa for most people. But there’s more to discover in this tiny yet shining slice of India. Its colonial past has left it with glorious architecture, and has given its food and culture a distinctive flavour that drips with joie de vivre.

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Old Goa

Open
: 7.00AM-6.30PM

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Old Goa

Open :7.00AM-6.30PM

Old Goa was, before Panaji, the capital of the Portuguese rulers. Vestiges of its great past remain in the form of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, and the Sé Cathedral, the largest church in Asia. The ruins of St. Augustine’s Church merit a visit, too.

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Uncover Vintage Goa

Open
: 9.00AM-5.30PM

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Uncover Vintage Goa

Open :9.00AM-5.30PM

Wander through the Latin quarter of Fontainhas and Sao Tome to get a glimpse of the Goa of yore. Chapels and lovely houses awash in yellows, reds and blues lie on either side of the lanes, complete with balcãos and oyster-shell windows. Wind up the tour at the pristine and stunning Panaji Church.

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Reis Magos Fort

Open
: 9.30AM-5.30PM

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Reis Magos Fort

Open :9.30AM-5.30PM

The oldest fort in Goa, Reis Magos started out as a fortress on the north bank of the River Mandovi. Later, it was used as a prison and then as a hospital, until it was finally abandoned and fell into disrepair. However, since its restoration in recent years, it has gone back to looking its glorious best.

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Braganza House

Open
: 9.00AM-5.00PM

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Braganza House

Open :9.00AM-5.00PM

The four hundred-year-old Braganza House in Chandor is steeped in history. Wander through the Great Salon and the colossal ballroom, gaze at antique European chandeliers adorning the ceiling, and admire the vintage gems, such as beautiful period furniture and Chinese porcelain, dotted about the house.

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Ride The Waves

Open
: 9.00AM-5.00PM

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Ride The Waves

Open :9.00AM-5.00PM

Arambol Beach has the perfect waves for you to try your hand at surfing. They are just high enough to give you a thrill, and most safe for beginners. All you need to do is get in touch with the surf instructors you will find on the beach who will help you conquer the surf in no time.

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Discover The Backwater

Open
: 8.00AM-10.00PM

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Discover The Backwater

Open :8.00AM-10.00PM

Settle yourself in a kayak and paddle along the tranquil waters of the Sal River. It’s easier than the more rigorous sea-kayaking, and, along the way, you might even spot some exotic birds. Goa Kayaking also organises night kayaking trips.

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Explore Paper Wonderland

Open
: 9.30AM-6.00PM

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Explore Paper Wonderland

Open :9.30AM-6.00PM

Paperworks is a dream come true for any stationery-lover. The tiny shop stocks handmade paper in an array of textures and colours, and also has a lovely collection of paper products. Pick from beautiful notebooks, papier-mâché jewellery, light-as-air lampshades and delicate gift boxes, which make for wonderful souvenirs.

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­Get a Glimpse of Local Life

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­Get a Glimpse of Local Life

Although the Mapusa Market goes about its business all days except Sunday, it is best experienced on a Friday morning, when it is at its bustling best. Vendors and shoppers come from all over Goa, and you will be surrounded by the sounds of zealous haggling for produce and souvenirs.

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Find Hand Painted Tiles

Open
: 9.00AM-7.00PM

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Find Hand Painted Tiles

Open :9.00AM-7.00PM

Azulejos, traditional Portuguese hand-painted ceramic tiles, are iconic Goan symbols. Pick one up at Velha Goa Galeria, where you will find tiles in a range of shapes, designs and colours. The store also has a lovely collection of glass products, and gorgeous ceramic curios.